Our cultural lenses can expand our Perception Box or contract it, keeping us closed off to new opportunities. So how do we become aware of the personal influences that shape our perceptions? In this episode of Science of Perception Box, cohosts Dr. Heather Berlin and Dr. Christoph Koch discuss the impact of cultural differences on identity and mindsets with guest Dr. Daphna Oyserman. Dr. Oyserman shares her insights on how small changes in context can significantly affect our mindset and choices, impacting our health and academic performance. 

Dr. Daphna Oyserman is a Dean’s Professor of Psychology and Professor of Psychology and Education at the University of Southern California. Dr. Oyserman received a PhD in psychology and social work from the University of Michigan and served on the faculty of The Hebrew University, Jerusalem, before returning to the University of Michigan where she last held appointments as the Edwin J. Thomas Collegiate Professor of Social Work, Professor of Psychology, and Research Professor in the Institute for Social Research.

Dr. Heather Berlin is a neuroscientist, clinical psychologist, and Professor of Psychiatry and Neuroscience at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai in New York City. 

Dr. Christof Koch is Chief Scientist for the Tiny Blue Dot Foundation and the current Meritorious Investigator and former President of the Allen Institute for Brain Science.

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Episode Chapters: 

(00:00) - Introduction

(02:19) - Cultural Identity and Understanding Cultural Differences

(05:26) - The Role of Culture in Society

(07:24) - Cultural Norms and Time Perception

(11:27) - Identity and Self-Perception

(13:54) - Culture and Motivation

(20:10) - Perception of Difficulty and Cultural Narratives

(23:00) - The Dilemma of Difficulty: When to Persevere or Pivot

(24:00) - Cultural Perspectives on Difficulty and Success

(28:14) - The Role of Talent vs. Hard Work in Achievement

(31:37) - Shifting Mindsets: Small Changes, Big Impacts

(34:49) - Procrastination and the Future Self

(38:21) - Teaching the Value of Hard Work to Kids

(42:34) - The Influence of Culture on Persistence

(45:57) - Concluding Thoughts and Reflections